Audi TT Review V6 2005

Billed as the ultimate TT, the 3.2 shares its powerplant with the VW Golf R32 and umpteen other products from that manufacturer.

It's a great engine made even better when hooked up behind Audi's latest automatic six speed Direct Shift Gearbox.

But at around $96 grand, there are plenty of quicker cars with just as much cache. The TT could do with a little more vroom off the mark to see off pesky WRXs.

• Has strong engine performance tempered by the DSG off the mark where it is a little reluctant.
• Takeoffs on a steep slope can be problematic if you have your foot on the brake and accelerator at the same time.
• Engine sounds delicious at all revs – burbling bottom end, a banshee at the top and deep rumblings in between.
• Drinks premium unleaded frugally for high output engine.
• Transmission offers sequential shifting via steer- ing wheel paddles and selector shift.
• More fun to drive in sequential mode.
• Engine is great to look at, crowd puller at a (gourmet?) barbecue.
• Body still looks "fabo" now with boot spoiler. Wheels are 18in Avus style multi spokers. Look the business carry low profile Conti rubber.
• Brakes are magic, massive multi-piston items operating on huge discs. Pop your eyeballs.
• Quattro all wheel drive provides high level of grip in all conditions. Weighs a bit though. Contributes to TT's extra sporty feel.
• Handling is pin sharp even hauling 1530kg.
• Cabin is adequate for two but there's a rear seat for some reason.
• Boot is good size, and there are storage compartments dotted around the cabin.
• Interior looks great even after all this time, still cuts it with new stuff (almost) has an awesome sound system, everything that opens and shuts, the full luxury treatment.
• No manual transmission available.
• Low seat and roof height makes access an issue for some.
• Love the xenon headlights, night into day.